Infrared photochemistry of bis(trifluoromethyl) peroxide

Abstract
Bis(trifluoromethyl) peroxide is readily dissociated by multiple infrared photon excitation at CO2 laser wavelengths. The primary dissociation product is CF3O; approximately 85% of the nascent radicals are further dissociated in the laser field to form CF2O and F. The F atoms then react with the remaining CF3O to produce CF3OF. The formation of CF3OF is strongly inhibited by addition of HI, which reacts preferentially with the F atoms.